LATEST NEWS

Do you have a story to tell or a catch to report? The Society would dearly like to hear from any member as feedback is essential in maintaining the quality of waters the Society has available to its members.

To report *any* catch simply Email us, or why not come along to one of the Monthly Meetings?


_________________________________________

Wednesday, 12th March 2008 ~ January 2008 Fishery Report

Most of the societies waters were quite slow before Christmas, though this has to be balanced against less anglers being prepared to brave the elements. I would like to turn to developments at Astbury where we have been involved in advance negotiations for the construction of a fit for purpose footpath around the Country Park in partnership with the land agent and Astbury Lake Trust to mutual advantage of all concerned. Only by working in partnership will we begin to maximise the opportunities of further improving site facilities. This may well encourage more of the local community to enjoy this fine venue, though it will also seek to reduce the burden of people allowing their dogs to foul the banks. Members should welcome better accessibility to the designated swims. Remember that not only do we own the water outright, we also own up to ten metres of bank measured from the waters edge ,so members need to be assured of our desire to work to improve the venue. In terms of fishing at Astbury I can report some nice Pike to low doubles and sizeable Perch to 2lb on lures.

Redesmere has been difficult of late with only two Carp reported, a few bonus Tench to 7lb and an incredible Bream of 14lb + a week ago. Sadly Liz had occasion to challenge two local anglers recently, (non members) who openly admitted to fishing for the Pike over the Christmas period without challenge. We have their names and they should be extremely grateful at this time that we haven't communicated their antics to the local club they are members of. On that theme, members are encouraged to check fellow members for bonifide membership. We don't ask you to get into confrontation, rather inform those responsible for each water if you encountered problems which may have breached club rules. The official bailiffs have been briefed to be more vigilant at this time.

Personally I have had cause to admonish several new members recently on Capesthorne Main pool, for leaving rods unattended, baiting off the bridge, and therefore on first offence their cards were endorsed. We are also aware that other members have reported speaking to new members entering or leaving the estate before the designated times. To those members new to our Society, welcome, though can I encourage you to read your membership card as the fixed penalty section will be strictly enforced. Also only umbrellas are permitted on the garden wall, and no tackle must be deposited on the lawn.

Capesthorne Top pool hasn't been fished since before Christmas, and we have experienced some serious attention from a flock of Gooseanders.

The Main Pool by contrast exploded into action just after Christmas with some excellent fishing across all the species range. Notable fish being several large Carp to 34lb, Pike 18lb, Bream 10lb with a number of anglers taking several fish to 7lb +.The Roach and Rudd have been active in the shallower water to Pole and Waggler tactics. In terms of the Capesthorne Estate, Liz and I recently hosted two senior members of the Environment Agency ,who came to witness at first hand how we manage the fisheries. They left with an impression of a forward thinking Society working with the Riparian owner to preserve one of the finest estates in England. The Society can be justly proud of such an acclaim coming from independent professionals.

The Capesthorne stock pool has been covered with ice on quite a few occasions recently, though is still producing Carp, Roach and Rudd over 1lb and small Tench. The top baits remain as corn, maggots, bread and castor.

Stanley pool is in fine winter form for Bream and Roach, and with Pike to 24lb reported it just gets better. The senior officials are hopeful of future positive discussions with BWB and the Sailing club aimed at negotiating the much awaited parking facilities. Once again working in partnership should and must yield opportunities to mutual benefit.

Rudyard lake has been producing some nice Pike with one of the largest specimens reported in recent years banked at mid twenties. Roach and skimmer Bream still showing, though no reports of the giant Perch that normally shoal up at this time of the year.

Ellenhall pools not much to report, though I remain conscious that some members prefer not to report returns for fear of their favoured pool coming under pressure. My recommendation would be for members to try pool 10.

Bolesworth has re opened though again no catch returns have been forthcoming. However, I can report that we now have another dedicated bailiff, one who resides on the estate. Whilst he doesn't fish himself, he remains committed to walking the banks on a daily basis to communicate with anglers present.

On to the River Dove, well it just gets better! I am delighted that so many people take the time to report their catches from Fauld and Scropton. None more so than the recent feature in Angling Times by Gary Knowles re-counting his approach that culminated in the capture of a magnificent Barbel of 12lbs. Other reports include visits by members who have visited the stretch for the first time and report Chub of 4 - 5lb, and a new SOTAS best Chub of 6lb 9oz.

Next month, I intend to feature the SOTAS fish management team, who have been active in the recent few weeks on projects negotiated because of our growing reputation as one of the most professional teams in the Country. Something that I am sure will enlighten members as to what goes on behind the scenes to improve our fisheries.

Remember if you don't report your catches, then we can never truly assess the full potential on many of the Societies waters.

I think that's all for now, tight lines for 2008.

Geoff Hayes

Thursday, 24 January 2008 ~ Bolesworth Update
Geoff Hayes confirms that the Estate Manager has now updated Liz Hayes on a number of phases to improvement work currently ongoing at Bolesworth. The message for members is that this disruption will not prevent anglers fishing. However, safety signs are in place to warn anglers of the work, with tasks designed to improve the fishery. They include the following:- removal of fallen trees, bankside restoration, especially where the cattle have eroded the bankside, deepening of parts of the lake, removal of the sheds, and creation of a path for angler access away from the immediate bankside in order to reduce disturbance to anglers in situ.

Also, in future, the cattle will be prevented from gaining access to the water by an electronic fence. This should be welcomed by anglers who will have a clear protected space within which to fish the water.
Also in partnership with the estate, the Society intends introducing greater oxygen giving potential to the water through the introduction of margin vegetation and establishing white lilley beds within a 100 metres reach of the bridge.

We are delighted as a Society to continue a partnership with the Bolesworth Estate which will not only secure the fishing for many years to come, whilst seeking to make improvements where deemed necessary or practicable to fulfil that aim.

Wednesday, 23 January 2008 ~ STOKE-ON-TRENT ANGLING SOCIETY NEWSLETTER 2007

2007 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
This year’s AGM was attended by 34 Members. Gerry Brookes was elected as the Assistant Match Secretary. Mick Hann and Ron Weston were reelected to the Committee; Andy Freeman and Ken Bryan were also elected. It was agreed that we would not hold monthly meetings in April, June and August. Membership subscriptions were unchanged.

The following changes were agreed to the GENERAL FISHING RULES:- The consumption of alcohol is forbidden on all Society waters; 3 minutes is the maximum time that a fish can be kept out of the water for photographic purposes; on rivers Members must not fish opposite another angler. Changes were agreed to the following ADDITIONAL RULES:- Angling will be allowed on Capesthorne Main Pool, Capesthorne Top Pool, Redesmere and Stock Pond between 1 July and 30 April inclusive; on Redesmere the 48 hours in any 7 days rule will now include the Meadow pegs; at Ellenhall Pools only barbless hooks will be allowed, there will be restrictions on keeping Carp in keepnets and Members will only be allowed to use 1 rod on all pools except Pool 3; There will be some changes to the special weeks allocated to those who have completed the Work Parties.
Albert Perkins

Membership subscriptions for 2008
Senior £80, Senior Citizen / Lady / Disabled £40, Juvenile £20. Entrance fee Senior £40, Senior Citizen / Lady / Disabled £20, Juvenile nil. Night Fishing Permit for still waters £35, Non Fishing Guest Permit £5 for year, Guest Ticket £5 per day.

Membership Renewal
Please would all Members with an ST Postcode renew with Mick Hann. All others please renew with Liz Hayes. All members are encouraged to renew before 1 April otherwise membership renewal cannot be guaranteed.

Treasurer’s Report
The Balance Sheet showed an excess of Expenditure over Income of £952; we paid £13000 off the Society’s mortgage; the Society is now debt free! At the AGM, the Treasurer gave a very detailed explanation of all the items on the Balance Sheet; no additional questions were raised by the Members present. Special thanks were given to Liz Hayes and Mick Hann for selling the membership Tickets.
Albert Perkins

Chairman’s Report 2007
(text of report given at the AGM)
I have some very sad news to announce. We have been informed of the death on 9 October 2007 of Mr Barbour, the owner of the Bolesworth Estate. Condolences have been sent on behalf of the Society.
It has been an excellent year for the Society; we are now debt free. With the mortgage on Astbury being paid in full we are now the proud owners, I am sure it will be an excellent asset for our Society in future years.

The fishing on all venues has been exceptional with records being broken again. Redesmere and Capesthorne have been making the headlines with plenty of Carp in the 30 lbs class and a new record for Redesmere of 39 lbs 2 ozs. There have been quality Barbel and Chub from the River Dove with Barbel of 13 lbs+ and Chub of 6 lbs, not to mention the excellent Grayling fishing. Stanley Reservoir has got off to a good start on the Pike fishing front with Pike reported of 20 lbs, the fishing in general has been excellent.
I’m afraid I have no news on car parking at Stanley Reservoir but rest assured I will continue working on resolving this issue.

I would like to thank my fellow Senior Officials Liz, Geoff and Albert for all their hard work.
Thank you to all Committee Members for their contributions and efforts over the last year.
I would like to give a special mention of thanks to all the people who took part in Work Parties. There was some excellent work done on all waters, particularly on Redesmere; a very big thank you to everyone who did extra work during the season on the Meadow.

Thank you to Ken Bryan and Derek Graham for all the work on Rudyard. A final thank you to Geoff Beckett for his sterling work in organising the work parties.

Thank you all Members for your support over the last year. I wish you all the best for the future.
John Davey

FISHERY MANAGER’s REPORT 2007
The past season has been another year of consolidation on the Society’s waters. The fishery management team has transferred over 30,000 mixed fish into Astbury following an extensive netting operation for a Staffordshire Club which saw us also transfer fish to one of their waters. We have also secured prime Roach, Rudd, Bream and Tench from a local source which were introduced into Capesthorne Main, Stock and Top Pools.

In terms of fishing potential Capesthorne Main Pool is now back to its best, with a well deserved reputation as one of the finest waters in the North West, with Members enjoying tremendous sport this year across the full species range. This coming year we will be planting more White Lilies in the Estate pools, whilst chemically treating the Fringe Lily in the Main Pool and the Canadian Pond Weed in the Top Pool.

Across at Redesmere the water continues to frustrate some anglers, whilst others have taken incredible multiple catches of Carp and Bream. Not a water for the feint hearted!

The Ellenhall complex has again been very popular for good reason with some tremendous catch returns reported by members. Regrettably we have information that leads us to believe that some Members, or maybe unwelcome visitors, have been removing fish from the complex. If you by chance see anything suspicious, then do not hesitate to contact Society Officials. The type of activity typical of suspicious intent is, any vehicles carrying large white tanks / containers. We will prosecute any person(s) found removing fish from our waters.

The River Dove at Fauld and Scropton remained popular throughout the season with some exceptional catches of Barbel to 13 lbs 13 ozs, the Chub fishing is an absolute revelation with fish now averaging 4 lbs+ with specimens to 6 lbs a realistic target. If you like trotting; with Grayling to 2 lbs and Roach making a comeback, a good day is in prospect from the right swims. The River Sow for a little river yields some phenomenal Chub, Perch and Pike; I am grateful to those regulars who have posted their successes this year on the web site.

At Bolesworth we were very saddened to learn of Mr Barbour’s untimely death in October. He was a true gentleman who was a very loyal supporter of the Society. When we had the oxygen depletion problems in 2006, he was determined, along with his Estate employees, to restore the fishery to its former glory and also improve the fishery. We shall greatly miss this thoughtful, kind, approachable and very understanding man. He leaves a widow and family whom I am sure will continue his legacy of managing this fine Estate.

The fishing at Bolesworth has been quite moody this year, though I have been quick to dispel rumours that it was anything to do with last year’s fish kill. Bolesworth is full of fish, as many members have reported.
Regrettably due to isolated incidents of bad behaviour and littering this year, we had to increase the Bailiff presence, not least to preserve the fishing on this private Estate.

The two reservoirs that we share at Knypersley and Rudyard continue to improve for their silver fish potential with sizeable Roach and Bream a realistic target especially in matches. Stanley Reservoir continues to improve year on year, and the thousands of small fish we stocked in 2006 should now have established yet another generation of healthy stock for the future.

I would recommend those members who have access to the internet to follow our web site, which now boasts monthly updates on news and catch returns. For those of you who have supported the Society with information and/or assistance at Work Parties a big thank you; I trust you have enjoyed some excellent fishing. To all members and your families, have a great Christmas and tight lines for 2008.
Geoff Hayes

Match Reports
Our National Team produced a good performance on the Great Ouse with Jim Berrisford finishing 7th overall – well done Jim! The Society matches suffered some disruption when the R Dove was in flood early in the year; the match which we managed to fish there in September was won with a Barbel of 9 lbs 12 ozs. The Bolesworth matches produced few Carp but plenty of Skimmers with weights to 20 lbs. Ellenhall produced good weights with 40 lbs being required to win. The Capesthorne matches produced plenty of Roach, Perch and Bream with weights to 20 lbs. The Arthur Simcock Memorial match was fished at Rudyard, with the winner having 20 lbs of Bream. If you are interested in fishing regular Senior Citizen matches on a Wednesday please contact the Assistant Match Secretary.
Gerry Brookes.
Tom Dean

Thursday, 03 January 2008 ~ Bolesworth Catch Report
Matt Boyles has been in touch again to inform us of a cracking winter capture from Capesthorne Main Lake. Matt got back on to the lake Sunday just gone after doing the odd piking session whilst Capesthorne was frozen, and after the recent mild spell decided it was time to have another go. The session resulted in the stunning 25lb 6oz carp pictured below, which brings matt’s tally of Capesthorne specimens to eleven for the year.

Thursday, 03 January 2008 ~ Bolesworth Catch Report
We’ve recently received news of a fantastic days fishing shared between members Ian Booth and Steve Leonard during the last week of October. The captors estimate the catch (pictured) to be between 60lb – 80lb and was taken during a five hour session. The captors would like to make it known that all the fish were not kept in the same net.

Wednesday, 02 January 2008 ~ Match Results

Fur & Feather Match fished 2nd December at Ellenhall
1 – Pete Adams 23-3-0
2 – Damion Thorn 13-3-0
3 – Denis Fradley 8-11-0
Match produced carp to 9lb with 12 anglers competing.

New Year Bottle Match fished 27th December at Ellenhall
1 – J Fletcher 10-14-0
2 – S Griffen 3-5-0
J3 – D Bosworth 3-0-0
J3 – D Gardner 3-0-0
Match produced carp to 5lb and lots of gudgeon. 14 anglers competed.

Wednesday, 02 January 2008 ~ First Pike Session brings a Rudyard Double
Matt Boyles decided to get his first piking session of the season in just before Christmas fishing the railway bank on Rudyard Reservoir. Matt fished opposite the Lady of the Lake and landed one of two takes on the day resulting in the lovely 10lb 2oz pike pictured below.

Wednesday, 02 January 2008 ~ Return to Sow brings near 5lb chub
Peter Timmis returned to fish the River Sow the week prior to Christmas. The result was a bigger Chub on a wobbled deadbait, weighing 4lb 14oz. Peter reports the river was clear and at normal level, and along with the chub Peter also took two small jacks around 3lb each.

Wednesday, 05 December 2007 ~ River Sow Catch Report
Hi Julian, I went fishing on the River Sow last Wednesday (28th November), my method is always Wobbled deadbait, I landed 10 Pike and 1 Chub, and yes the Chub was also on the Wobble or Sink and Draw as some people call it, Largest fish was around 61/2 pounds with the rest being all small Jacks. I returned today Sunday 2nd Dec and the water was up 1 foot and heavily coloured, I managed 1 pike at 7 pounds exactly. Regards, Peter Timmis

Wednesday, 05 December 2007 ~ Match Results
Victory Jubilee Cup, Ellenhall.
1 – Clive Bourne 44-4-0
2 – R Lightfoot 35-4-0
3 – A Stevenson 17-4-0
Carp to 8lb banked, with Clive taking most fish on floating crust in Bull Pool.

Sam Dawson Cup, Ellenhall
1 – Pete Adams 42-4-0
2 – Chris Newton 26-0-0
3 – R Lightfoot 8-0-0
Carp to 7lb

Interclub Challenge Match with Potteries AS, Colliers Bridge, Great Haywood
1 – D Bosworth, SOTAS, 9-11-0
2 – S Landon, POTT, 9-9-0
3 – B Woolridge, 3-8-0
4 – T Dean, SOTAS, 2-4-0
Potteries won with 16-4-0 against 15-11-0, however, SOTAS won overall on matches.

Wednesday, December 05, 2007~ From Fishery Managers Report, September 2007.
The past few weeks have seen some spectacular catches from the Societies portfolio of waters. I start this report with the River Dove which whilst running low and clear has produced a number of double figure Barbel to 11lb from Fauld. In the club match on Sunday 16 Sept a few nice fish were lost, though Jim Berrisford managed a 9lb 12oz fish to win. John Salt caught two immaculate Chub for 8lb 11oz to come second on a difficult day with a number of members reporting losing hard fighting specimens. Scropton producing some nice fish with Gerry Brookes's 6lb pleasure caught Chub, confirming my recent prediction. Grayling now beginning to feature for those who love trotting. See news for reports on the Sow.

Capesthorne and Redesmere just get better for all species. It was particularly pleasing to be involved in the Capesthorne Hall match, with not a dry net from the strong field of competitors. Everyone caught silver fish with skimmers and Roach easy to tempt, with Jim Berrisford taking the honours with a few Perch boosting his return to just under 20lb.Unfortunately the Pike caused a few problems, with Ray Lightfoot having five take Roach off his hook in the first two hours. Incidentally I must congratulate Jim Berrisford on his section win in the recent NFA National on the Great Ouse which gave him seventh overall. Jim goes on to fish the National champions match, and I am sure we all would wish him well.

A very good angling companion reported having a tremendous day on Capesthorne Main pool with several large Bream caught from 5lb - 9lb on pellet/sweetcorn. Whilst the Carp returns have been slow for most, when members get a break through, the rewards are truly rewarding. Member Andy Palmer sent me images of a new monster at 32lb, a magnificent fish, which rarely visits the bank. Again we are well on course for at least a dozen thirties by the close of the season. Still no Tench to report or the elusive Chub.
On a more serious note, I have received reports concerning a number of anglers who when leaving the water in the evening have been baiting up off the bridge with large quantities of feed. This is an unnecessary and unwelcome measure, selfish and affects the fishing for others.

Over at Redesmere the real headline grabbers must be Daniel Shapley 8 years old ,who on his fifth Bream session with dad Rob took an incredible three Bream, of 11lb 6oz,11lb 2oz and 10lb 8oz.Liz and I are over the moon for this next generation of our fishing family. Also Phil Davey caught an unbelievable brace of Single Scale at a new lake record of 39lb 2oz, and a 29lb 14oz to add to an already memorable campaign, having caught the long Common a matter of weeks ago at 32lb +.Will McGowan caught one of the Mere's most memorable fish the Half Linear at 32lb.This fish is over 35 years old, very illusive and in immaculate condition. I duly sent Will images of this fish when our Rob caught it back in 1982 at 18lb 6oz, true Carping history. Also nice to see so many of the young Commons coming through to upper twenties, with examples of several 28lb- 29lb specimens.

Capesthorne Top pool producing a few nice fish, though weed still a problem. Simon Caddy reported catching one of the Leney Linears at 23lb.Both the Big Common and the Leather have been spotted recently and by all accounts look very impressive, especially as the Common has now eluded capture for three years.

Bolesworth producing some nice Carp to low twenties, though some anglers continue to find the water difficult. No reports of pleasure catches received this month. Committee member Ron Weston reports a few Eels to 3lb 8oz.Sadly once again I have to report a minority of members who seem to be incapable of reading their club rules for this water. A number of members have been accessing the estate off the A41, which is totally unacceptable. The only access is the lodge entrance off Tattenhall Lane, which leads to the main car parking area.

Fanshawe pool has been quite popular of late with a few members catching Carp to low doubles, though again some anglers really struggling to come to terms with the tight feeding patterns either early morning or just before dusk. By contrast the Capesthorne stock pool continues to be very well fished. I do not think anyone has blanked on there this season. We have also extended the times that this water can be fished to in the evenings in line with the conditions on the main lake.

Ellenhall complex, reports a bit thin on the ground, though the recent match winning weight of 49lb demonstrated the potential even on a difficult day, when it rained for most of the match.

Rudyard match weights still remain consistent with over 20lb needed to frame. Reports of a small Carp 4-5lb being caught in a recent match. Some nice skimmers showing, though I haven't heard of an appearance by those giant Perch as yet.

Could I also remind members that Horsebridge pool remains closed for fishing, since following a risk assessment of the close proximity of the overhead voltage power lines we have deemed it not safe for members. Therefore, we will be managing it as a stock pool.

I would like to thank all those members who continue to send me images of their fish, or provide invaluable feedback on the waters, something that remains very important to the senior officials and committee, in taking the society forward.

Geoff

Thursday, 25 October 2007 ~ Capesthorne Charity Night Proves Huge Success
Capesthorne aficionados noted with interest the 6th October 2007, which saw a very special charity event take place on the banks of the Main Lake, effectively allowing night fishing on the water for the first time in the lakes well documented history.

The one-off event, organised by SOTAS Senior Officials Geoff & Liz Hayes proved an overwhelming success and the twenty-plus anglers who took part were well aware of the privileged situation they found themselves in. The lease agreement for the water has always stipulated that the water is day fishing only, but through the kind agreement of the Capesthorne Estate, permission was granted to fish a special night session with all monies raised going to the Francis House Children’s Hospice Rainbow Family Trust.

The event was hailed a huge success by all those taking part and a creditable £325 was raised for charity along the way. The fishing proved extremely productive and six carp over twenty pounds graced the banks during the night with a further two double figure fish netted for good measure. The largest carp went to Capesthorne regular Andy Freeman who banked a stunning 29lb 10oz specimen along with another carp of 17lb. Other notable captures were Mark Booth with a 25lb Leather, Tony Lowndes with a nice fish of 24lb 14oz, and three fish of around 21lb falling to Paul Owen, Mark Jeffery’s and Simon Caddy. Lewis Clayton also took a nice upper double from the waterfall at around 16lb. In addition to all those banked, two carp were lost at the net and over eighteen large bream were also banked during what proved to be an extremely memorable nights fishing.

The organisers wish to pass on their thanks to the Capesthorne Estate for making this special event possible and it is hoped this special night event can become an annual event subject to further talks and agreement with the Estate. Pictured below is Andy Freeman with his 29lb 10oz carp.

Wednesday, 24 October 2007 ~ Josh Foster bags a Capesthorne Carp to remember!
Mike Foster has been in touch again, but this time it’s fourteen year old son, Josh, who has been bagging up – with an awesome 32lb 4oz mirror caught off the garden pool (pictured below). Josh banked the stunning fish at about 12.15pm on Friday 19th October. Mike explains “To say he was happy just does not capture the moment! I had a twenty the evening before so said we would go fishing on the Friday as he was off school. We fished the Garden Pool wall side; I fished the steps and Josh went two benches down from me. He has been fishing with me since he was seven but has only been carping for about two years, and I’m very proud to say it was all his own work. He shouted he had a drop back right to the floor and I said ‘Hit it, its probably a bream’ but it started taking line and I said it looks like your playing your first Capesthorne carp! He played it well and said he was very nervous - little did he know I was praying it would stay on. it rolled close in and I thought my god that’s a lump! I had the net and said to josh the next time it starts coming in, keep it coming even if you have to walk back. He did and she slid over the net. By then he had a bit of an audience, I was so glad to see that fish in the net. I said to josh its over 25 and his face lit up. We weighed it with the help of another member and it went 32lb 4oz. Josh was speechless and I was very proud of him."

What more can we say – well done Josh!

Wednesday, 24 October 2007 ~ Two Tone sets new PB for Mike Foster at Capesthorne
Mike Foster recently banked Two Tone from Capesthorne Main Lake at a new best weight of 34lb 2oz (pictured below). Mike took the stunning fish on the 3rd October, fishing the steps by the toilet end of the Garden Pool. Mike explained “I had a new wind blowing in and it looked good, at about 3.30pm we had a heavy shower and just as I got the brolly up I got a good take on the left hand rod. My mate Kev had popped over from the bottom lake so he did the honours with the net; I could not believe it was two tone again – that’s the sixth time in twelve years that I have caught this magnificent creature. My pal, Paul came up with the Rubens and verified the weight, they gave me a lot of help and it was very much appreciated.”

The fish came shortly after another stunning capture just a few days before; a lovely 26lb 4oz mirror taken from the Pads Swim on Monday October 1st, which Mike explains was very welcome after a long run of blanks(below 2nd). Also shown below (3rd down) is another fish caught from the garden pool weighing 26lb 12oz, caught with 30 minutes to the off-time, hence the fading light.

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 – Match Results

Derek Burke Shield, Fished River Dove 16-9-07

1st J Berrisford 9-12-0
2nd J Salt 8-14-0
3rd M Churchman 1-7-0

The winning catch included a barbel of 9lb 12oz (two lost also). River was reported to be running low and clear.

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 – Sow Catch Reports
Allan Fryer and Alan Price have been having some great results on the Sow recently, reporting a selection of nice chub (to 4lb), perch, roach and pike. A session last weekend saw a nice two pound perch to Allan Fryer on trotted maggot (pictured below), whilst Alan Price took a stunning pike on ultra light spinning gear weighing in at 15lb 3oz (image below). Of the pike capture, Allan price says he took the fish on a ten dollar six foot rod using a tiny plug and says it was the best fun he’d had in ages!

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 – Matt & Ryan off to a flier!
Matt Boyles has been in touch to let us know how his first season on Capesthorne Main Lake has been going on since joining the Society in 2007.

Matt has taken nine fish to date topped by the long common at 28.14, which was part of a three catch, whilst friend Ryan Wood has taken seven, topped by a 31lb specimen mirror.

Matt and Ryan are pictured below with their largest to date.

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 – Quick Carp Update!
I’ve had a few emails over recent weeks reporting some good carp captures on Society waters. First are some stunning captures from Bolesworth by a member who wishes to remain anonymous for the moment, taking mirrors of 20lb 6oz, 21lb exactly, and two 17lb’ers (one of which was a perfect
Leather) amongst many between 9-15lb on recent sessions. Second up is Lee Moriarty who bagged his first fish from the Top Pool in the shape of a stunning 27lb mirror from the Bay, which finally succumbed after seven fruitless sessions. Also reported is a stunning 25lb 4oz carp from the Main Lake, taken by Ellesmere Port member Steven Williams.

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 – Another new 30 for Capesthorne!
Capesthorne Main pool has been throwing up incredible numbers of 25lb plus fish this year, and here is another new 30lb carp, caught by Andy Palmer at in incredible 32lb. Geoff Hayes reports this to be a fish that rarely visits the bank, which makes its capture all that more momentous!

Tuesday, 02 October 2007 - Capesthorne Hall Cup Images
Below are a couple of nice images from the previously reported Capesthorne Hall Cup.

Pictured are, right to left, Jim Berrisford with his winning bag of 19-6-0, Steve Griffen with his second placed catch of 15-6-0, and Paul Kursjac with his third place bag of 14-9-0.

Wednesday, 26 September 2007 - From August Update

I start this month's report by congratulating all the volunteers who turned up on Sunday 5 August at Redesmere and who committed to a magnificent effort to transform five swims on the Meadow. Special thanks to Mark Weedon for co-ordinating everyone. The task demanded around 12 tonnes of hardcore and wood chippings be transported to finish off the bankside. I know that in the week that followed members took advantage of the restoration to enjoy some excellent fishing.

Remaining with Redesmere, I can report that several of the 'big thirties' have now slipped up, with the Pretty One out at 34lb 12oz and Ringtail Leather at 36lb 4oz.Two of the netting team members Tony Lowndes and Andy Freeman are amongst the most consistent, with a run of quality fish. Dan Edgar has been getting amongst the shoals of late, and had a five fish hit very recently. I spoke to one member the other day who reported multiple catches of Bream to 12lb 8oz.

Capesthorne Main Pool continues to fish well for general species with Roach to 1 1/2lb and Bream averaging 7lb + with pellet/corn a good bait to tempt them. Young Daniel Shapley 8 year old , fishing with his Dad has managed to catch over forty Roach during four evening sessions. Some anglers report Pike can be a nuisance, with a number reporting takes whilst playing small fish, though we are monitoring the situation. Tony Beech is having a great season with the Carp and added Two Tone 33lb 8oz and the long Common 27lb 14oz to his growing list. I also witnessed a 31lb PB for a member, the first time I have recognised this particular fish over the magical weight. With out doubt Capesthorne is fishing it's best for over thirty years. On a more serious matter a member received two fixed penalty awards, three months suspension for entering the estate before the allotted time and one month for dropping his tackle off without an unloading pass, both to run concurrently. Members are reminded to stick strictly to the times confirmed in your membership card. Remember the cameras at the lodge are 24/7.

Top pool work parties on going to mechanically remove the Canadian pond weed, which has taken a hold in parts of the bay. I intend to extensively chemically treat next winter come spring. Fish spotting not a problem with several giants witnessed basking in the shallows.

Bolesworth proving patchy for some anglers, though some good reports of Roach and Skimmers. Bailiffs have been active on this water because of the problems confirmed in my last report.

Stanley Reservoir is proving very popular with the local members, with good bags of Bream and Roach responding to all methods.

Astbury for the few anglers persevering the rewards are still there. A number of anglers staying for a couple of days have reported multiple catches of Carp mostly low doubles, though the larger fish have been witnessed at close quarters off the Yacht club bank, and whilst crashing out across the lake at dawn and dusk.

Fanshawe fish very active in the sunny weather, though for some reason most visitors are struggling. One or two members fishing for the Rudd, small Carp and Tench with some success, especially on pellet, sweetcorn and maggot.

Capesthorne stock pool providing excellent sport with Roach, Rudd and small Carp to 1lb easy to catch. Small Tench 4-8 inches growing through fast in the rich environment. Also a few Crucians starting to move. What has been really encouraging is to witness so many parents taking on their young children and coaching them in the fine art. Large Carp definitely more difficult to catch, though they are suckers for surface castors and bread.

Ellenhall complex ever popular and consistent, with the matches providing keen competition for all comers.

Rudyard lake proving very popular with the wider match angling fraternity, with weights of 15lb needed to frame. Not heard if any of the large Carp have put in an appearance yet.

On to the River Dove, encouraging reports from Scropton and Fauld of Chub to 5lb 8oz from both stretches. On this basis we should see some more specimens of 6lb this autumn /winter when they are normally at their best. A few upper single figure Barbel reported, though no doubles as yet. Thanks to member Carl Davis who confirmed to me that last year he caught a 13lb 13oz Barbel from Scropton a magnificent achievement in his first year after the species.

No news from the River Sow as yet.

Tight Lines,

Geoff Hayes

Thursday, 13 September 2007 – Little Linear Makes a Welcome Return
Will McGowan has banked Redesmere’s stunning ‘Little Linear’ at a weight of 32lb 4oz. It is thought this is the first capture of the fish in over two years, so it’s no surprise Will is over the moon with the capture.

Will is pictured below with Redesmere’s Little Linear at 32lb 4oz

UPDATE: It seems there has been a little confusion about which fish this is exactly. I’m reliably informed that it is in fact ‘Half Lin’ also known as ‘Ray’s Linear’.

Jason Taylor informs us that "predator ray" was the first person to catch the fish at over thirty pounds, so the fish became known as ‘Rays Thirty’ just for recognition between the anglers who where fishing at the time. Jason thinks ray caught it at 30lb 12oz in 2001 with it only being caught another three times since; with captures by Saint Helens Mark at 29lb 8oz, Dan Edger at 29lb 14 ,and Will at 32lb 4oz.

Thursday, 13 September 2007 – Winter Capture shows Redesmere Success
The images below show fantastic evidence of the Society’s fisheries management policy in action on Redesmere. The above image shows Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes with a stunning 7lb 14oz linear caught back in 1998. Records show that the fish was transferred to Redesmere in the Spring of 1999 at a weight of 9lb 14oz, and the image below this shows the same fish captured by Simon Jones last winter at a weight of 25lb 6oz – a magnificent fish that’s only going to get bigger in the future!

Thursday, 13 September 2007 – SOTAS Match Results.

Ellenhall Victory Cup, fished 19.8.07
1. R Lightfoot – 49-15-0
2. C Newton – 45-1-0
3. I Baddley – 34-0-0

17 fished the match with carp to10lbs.

Capesthorne Hall Cup, fished 09.9.07
1. J Berrisford - 19-6-0
2. S Griffen – 15-6-0
3. P Kursjac – 14-9-0

Nets included lots of nice roach.

22/08/2007 SOTAS Match Results

Derek Evans Trophy & Interclub Challenge Match, Rudyard Lake, 05/08/2007.
1. D Bosworth 11-6-0
2. S Griffin 8-4-0
3. F Holt 7-13-0

SOT won Potteries AS: 22-15-0 to 13-13-0. 10 Fished the match with bream showing to 3lb

Bolesworth Castle Charity Match fished 12/08/07

1. D Randles jnr 21-4-0
2. J Bell 20-8-0
3. D Bosworth 15-15-0

Match won with all skimmers. 1 carp caught to 8lb with nine fishing the match.

.

22/08/2007 ~ News from July Update by Geoff Hayes

At the time of writing this update for June/July I can report that the Capesthorne estate Carp appear to proving hard to catch, and whilst Capesthorne Main lake has produced three different thirties and numerous mid twenties it isn't easy fishing. By comparison the general coarse fishing is excellent with the lake in fine form for good pleasure bags of quality Roach, Bream and Tench. One angler has reported a good catch of Perch and realised an ambition of a 2lb specimen on worm.

Top pool is producing some nice fish though mainly Carp, no Tench reported. The canadian pond weed is beginning to propogate across the bay swims, so I have been monitoring this in case some mechanical removal becomes necessary.

On Redesmere the Carp fishing has been difficult due to a heavy spawning. Only one of the big thirties out thus far, and news of this was confirmed to me this morning, Jason Taylor catching the Snub Common at 37lb a pleasing result for a long time regular. Bream catches are just astounding with a large percentage double figure specimens. Sadly many of the Carp anglers are failing to weigh some huge fish, just because they are not fishing for them! A few nice Tench reported caught on the humble maggot from swims close in through the middle wood.

Fanshawe pool fishing very well for the regulars who know what time to go and capitalise on the intense feeding spells. Any angler who knows this water gets the ultimate thrill in fishing when a profusion of bubbles invade your swim, and the excitement mounts as you wonder when the fish will take your bait. Best baits at the moment sweetcorn, luncheon meat, maggots and pellet.

Bolesworth fishing well for Carp the length of the lake,with many anglers catching between 2 - 8 fish a session though mostly upper singles and low doubles. Bream and Roach also easy to tempt.No reports of Eels as yet (picture below shows Ben Billington with a stunning 18lb 2oz Bolesworth common, which he took on his last cast of the day placing a bait to showing fish in the shallows).

Ellenhall continues to fish very well across all pools for Carp, Tench and quality Roach and Bream. Pool 2 is proving very popular for good reason, with some excellent silver fish returns. A Carp of 21lb has been caught on Pool 3 and a few sizeable Tench.

Not much reported from the rivers Dove or Sow at this time, though with the constant high water levels due to the highest June rainfall since records began, maybe not many anglers are venturing out!

Rudyard some good pleasure bags reported, though no reports of those monster Carp.

Stanley reservoir fishing very well for mixed silver fish, best methods feeder or waggler and spray maggot.

I remain happy to receive any catch reports from Knypersley.

Astbury has produced some nice fish over the last few weeks with Mirror Carp to 28lb and a few mid twenty pound Commons. I was delighted to hear of a few double figure Bream and two monster Tench one of 9lb + and a double, absolute result for the anglers concerned. Well done.

Important Information for all Members
Regrettably we have received an anonymous report from someone claiming to be a member about anglers committing a number of misdemeanours at Bolesworth. Because of the nature of the report it lacks credibility, and under normal circumstances it would be ignored. What is worrying, it rather portrays a distinct lack of confidence and respect for those charged with managing the society and its members. If the allegations outlined to us were true, then this angler should have acted more decisively. For instance, if he felt intimidated by a developing situation, then our advice would be to withdraw from the water and make a telephone call at the time or shortly afterwards. This action would have resulted in an intervention by bailiffs, the estate gamekeeper or the Police. We never disclose the source of genuine information about rule breakers, rather resolve to act swiftly to deal with the problem identified. All of us are custodians of these fine waters, and we always maintain that ' We would rather lose an angler, than a lease!

For this reason we take this opportunity to remind all members, to make themselves familiar with club rules before going fishing. Again we have specific rules associated with each venue and members must abide by these rules or lose privileges, or at worst their membership card. Senior officials and bailiffs are empowered to follow the disciplinary procedures, and we will enforce the fixed penalties without exception. Only recently I had to disqualify a guest angler at the Bolesworth match for leaving his rod fishing whilst he walked at least 250 metres from his pitch to talk to another angler. Totally unacceptable and irresponsible, and if he had been a member, then I would have had no hesitation but to expel him there and then.

Please remember that such measures are dedicated to protecting the fishing rights for the majority of our members. To be clear, we have very few problems on our waters, and that's the way we like it, preserving the best of fishing in tranquil unspoilt surroundings.

Geoff Hayes Fisheries Manager

Friday, 03 August 2007 Match Results

Arthur Simcock Memorial Trophy, fished at Rudyard on 22nd July 2007.
1. K Johanson 21-13-0
2. R Lightfoot 11-3-0
3. S Griffen 9-9-0

The match produced bream to 4lb with 24 anglers fishing.

Ellenhall Challenge Cup fished 15th July 2007.
1. Clive Bourne 46-8-0
2. Chris Newton 45-1-0
3. Ray Lightfoot 12-10-0

Ellenhall Ladies Match Fished 15th July 2007.
1. Liz Hayes 12-10-0

Above matches produced Carp to 8lb

3rd Division national Championships Fished on the Great Ouse at Littleport
Jim Berrisford came 7th Overall with 7.960 kilos, with SOT coming 22nd out of 37 teams.

Match Results for OAP Match fished at Ellenhall 4th July 2007

1 – G Brookes 30-14-0
2 – D Bosworth 17-14-0
3 – A Ryles 14-10-0

Catches included carp to 8lb with several larger fish lost on pole tactics.

10-07-07 ~ First Perch for Liam!
Seven year old Liam recently had his first trip out to the Society’s Astbury Mere venue. The morning session had proved a little difficult until Liam suddenly announced he had a fish on! After a bit of a tussle Liam netted his first ever perch – and not surprisingly he was over the moon with his result! A big well done from us all!

10-07-07 ~ Astbury Pike Picture
Carl Davis has sent in a picture of a fantastic pike taken at Astbury Mere last year. The fish weighed in at 21lbs.

June Update by Geoff Hayes.

All the Capesthorne waters have proved difficult from the off with the fish spawning and the weather being a bit up and down.

Capesthorne Top Pool - A Leather of 27lb 12oz has been banked along with ‘Crinkle Tail’ and some stockies to low doubles .

Redesmere - Very slow start,no reports of any of the big fishing having come to the net although tench to 6lb have been caught and again no reports of any Bream thus far. All fish spawning heavily in the Yacht club bay.

Capesthorne Main Pool - Reports of some sizeable pleasure bags of Roach 1lb 10oz and Perch 2lb on float and ledger. Bream to 8lb have been caught though they too have been spawning. A few Carp have been off, the biggest at 31lb with several mid twenties showing. Late afternoon to early evening offering the best time to fish.

The Stock Pond has been off to a flyer with Carp to 9lb,Crucians, Rudd and Roach all over 1lb and the small Tench in numbers.

Fanshawe proving moody and difficult of late, though fish are very visible on sunny days. Best Carp 23lb Tench to 7lb.Small Rudd shoals look good for the future.

Bolesworth - Just received a very genuine report of an angler catching 5 Carp to 17lb and remarkably three Tench over 6lb with a new lake record specimen 10lb 7oz. All the fish were in immaculate condition. Plenty of shoal fish moving with Carp all over the lake from end to end.

Astbury unconfirmed reports of a double figure Tench and some Bream to 9lb.Not many anglers sticking it out with the other waters opening.

Geoff Hayes
Fisheries manager

Pairs Match, Fished Ellenhall, 03/6/07

1 – C Newton / M Churchman, 51-9-0
2 – T Dean / K Franklin, 50-3-0
3 – B Hammond / G Brookes, 43-3-0

Carp to 7lb using surface fished dog biscuits.

Barney Sargeant Trophy, Fished Bolesworth Castle, 25/5/07

1 – Geoff Hayes, 7-14-0
2 – D Bosworth, 4-1-0
3 – Tom Dean, 3-8-0
4 – S Griffin, 3-4-0

All skimmer bream with only two carp lost over 36 anglers. Nasty day with heavy rain but enjoyed by all.

14-05-2007 ~ Mrs Burton Trophy Match Results
The Mrs Burton Trophy Match was fished at Bolesworth Castle on 6th May 2007. Fishing conditions proved difficult on the day, with one carp adding to the winning weight.

Results
1st – D Randles: 12-0-0
2nd – P Kursjac: 7-13-0
3rd – N Thorn: 6-3-0
4th – C Bourne: 4-14-0

08-05-2007 ~ Four carp for Ian on the Hut Pool
Ian Horton has been in touch again to report another good day’s angling on Ellenhall. Fishing the Hut Pool, Ian took four fish during his session weighing 5.5 lbs, 10 lbs, 14 lbs, and 9lbs. The only downside was one lost double at the net, but no doubt the four fish banked more than made up for it!

08-05-2007 ~ News From April Update.
The run up to the close season proved productive on many of the Society’s waters, particularly for carp anglers with Redesmere, Capesthorne and Bolesworth all producing good sport. Of course the carp angling continues on Astbury, and with the introduction of a number of fine looking young carp recently, there will be even more to go at for the future (see news).

In terms of captures, the biggest news prior to the close must be yet another new30lb+ fish for Capesthorne Main Lake. The fish was banked by Andy Freeman, and Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes estimates this to be the eighth current fish to be banked at over 30lb from the water (picture below).

Society Secretary Albert Perkins informs us that unfortunately, the management team at Trentham Gardens have decided not to pursue the possibility of SOTAS taking over the fishing rights. A letter received from the Operations Manager at Trentham stated "We are writing to inform you that we have now made a decision regarding the Fishing Rights at Trentham. After considering all proposals from various interested parties, we have decided to keep the fishing in-house for the foreseeable future." This is an unfortunate outcome after the work the Society put in, and Albert would like it to be clear that the decision not to continue was taken by the Trentham Gardens management team, and not SOTAS.

25-04-2007 ~ Redesmere Fingerlings
The images below, taken by John Isgar, show fingerlings caught in a landing net on Redesmere approximately three years ago. With some members assuming that any small carp captured on Redesmere must have been introduced, these images serve to illustrate that a number of home grown carp must be making it past the predators.

16-04-07 ~ Six fish Ellenhall haul for Ian
Society member Ian Horton has been in touch to report a good days sport on Ellenhall Pools recently. Ian fished pool three on the 7th April and took six carp in total during his session to give a total weight of 58lb 5oz. The largest fish on the day weighed in at 13lb 5oz.

10-04-2007 ~ Introductions for Astbury
Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes has provided some images of a recent selection of fine looking young carp introduced to Astbury Mere recently. The introductions represent part of the sustained stocking programme undertaken for this water which has seen quite literally, thousands of fish added over recent years.

10-04-2007 ~ Main Lake just the ticket!
After joining SOTAS early in 2007, Gary Howson decided to pit his wits against the inhabitants of Capesthorne Main Lake and set himself a target of catching a personal best 20lb+ common during the 2007/08 season. After just a few blank trips fishing short sessions Gary managed not only to catch his first Capesthorne common before the end of the 06/07 season, but smashed his personal best by miles! Weighing in at 26lb 8oz, the fantastic common pictured below means Gary will need to set a new target for when the water reopens in June!

10-04-07 ~ News from March Update.

Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes reports that Capesthorne Main Pool has been in fine form on the run up to the close season with carp of 30lb, 29lb, two over 28lb, 27lb, two over 25lb, 22lb and two over 19lb reported. Redesmere has also kicked into action with a number of thirties reported to 36lb plus, and a number of members have been reporting double good figure Bream.

Bolesworth is fishing well across all species, as is Ellenhall. The River Dove has also exploded, though by the time members read about this, we will be into the close season.

The images below show a small selection of the latest stocking of a few thousand quality roach, skimmer bream and rudd into Astbury; largest for all species around the pound mark. Most of the fish were 4 - 6 ounces. Also stocked were a few thousand small perch, and low double figure heavily-plated mirror and common carp, purchased from a fishery in Staffordshire which will shortly close to angling.
The Fisheries team have also taken the first steps towards the possible purchase of a different strain of fast growing carp for Astbury, and also hope to bring in more large bream and tench. This will perhaps be the last consignment before finally looking to agree the stocking of Catfish with the Environment Agency. The delay on this species simply being down to re-prioritisation given the availability of the aforementioned quality specimens.

This weekend (17th March) should see us stocking Capesthorne Main Pool with more roach, bream, perch and with a bit of luck some sizeable tench. Over the coming two months we will be stocking Redesmere, Capesthorne Top and Main pools each with a large consignment of Carp ranging from 5 to 20lb. Also, crucians will feature in the restocking of many of our waters subject to the necessary health checks. As always, everything we do will be in accordance with EA permissions.

Also because it was announced at the last meeting, Geoff Hayes confirms that the SOTAS senior officials have been in discussion with the Trentham Gardens owners with a view to securing the fishing rights. As a consequence the Society has now submitted a business case to support the bid. When you consider that last year 2 million people passed through the site, you can imagine what a tremendous opportunity this would be to broaden the Society’s horizons.

16-03-07 ~ Pike Success for Matthew
Keith Nicholl has sent in some pictures of his son, Matthew, who has been enjoying some excellent sport with Pike on the Society’s Capesthorne Hall and Stanley Pool waters.

The Capesthorne fish weighed in at around 14 pounds, and was taken on a roach deadbait about three weeks ago, whilst the Stanley fish was caught just a few days ago at 19lb 8oz, this time taken on mackerel. The stunning fish was part of a three fish catch on the day with the others weighing around 7lb each.

16-03-07 ~ News from February Update
Catch reports have been a bit thin on the ground over the last few weeks, so there is not a massive amount to add to the website at the moment. If you have been out and about on Society waters please do get in touch and let us know how you have been getting on – if you have any pictures to share with us so much the better!

We have had unofficial reports of a 22lb Pike from Capesthorne Main Lake in the last few weeks along with news of two mid-twenty Mirrors. A friend of Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes had a stunning couple of days fishing on the Dove recently taking no less than twenty two Chub on two consecutive days fishing when the river was fining down after the floods! The catch consisted of fish mainly over the 4lb mark with a few 5lb specimens.

News from Redesmere is a bit slow at the moment although we have had one report of a member who fished two sessions on the water taking two double figure bream on each sitting. Bolesworth is on good form and has been providing excellent sport on the carp side with many fish to mid-doubles.

Horsebridge Pool remains closed due to a health and safety issue with overhead power cables – members are reminded that fishing is not permitted on the venue and we will hopefully have an update soon.

17-02-07 ~ The Future’s Bright
SOTAS Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes has provided a few images of stock currently being grown on for future introduction into the Society’s waters. I’m sure you’ll agree they are all absolutely stunning and will no doubt become prized captures for many members in the not too distant future.

17-02-07 ~ Redesmere Images
As previously reported on the website, Craig Livingston has had a superb season on Redesmere banking several 30lb plus specimens and Craig has provided the stunning images below.

A new thirty for Redesmere!

Ringtail at 36lb 6oz

Pretty One, 30lb plus

Dan Edgar and Craig with a brace of Redesmere thirties

17-02-07 ~ Four by One!
In November 2006 Mark Weedon banked Redesmere’s ‘The Snub’ at 38lb 10oz - amazingly his fourth capture of the magnificent fish! Mark’s first capture of the fish which many anglers fail to catch even once was back in 1995, at a weight of 32lb 4oz, followed up by captures in 1996 and 1998 at weights of 32lb 8oz and 34lb respectively, however this latest capture at 38lb 10oz shows just how well the fish and the water are evolving. Mark is pictured below with his fourth capture.

16-02-07 ~ Bolesworth on form for Darren
Darren McDonnell is a new member to SOTAS and has been having some good results on Bolesworth Castle. Darren has fished three short day sessions since the beginning of the year banking eight fish in total. The pristine 15lb mirror pictured below was one of several doubles to fall for an SBS boilie fished over a spod of casters and eight freebaits.

16-02-07 ~ Luke gets off the Mark at Capesthorne
Luke Oakley has had a cracking start to the year taking a stunning Capesthorne Main Lake mirror of 19lb. The fish came to Luke’s rods shortly after setting up on only his first session on the water after joining the Society – hopefully a sign of many more to come. Luke is pictured below with his immaculate 19lb mirror.

16-02-2006 ~ News From January 2007

Renewals.
Members are reminded that renewals are now due for 2007.

New applications are to be sent to; Mrs L Hayes, 73 Racecourse Road, Wilmslow. Cheshire, SK9 5LW. Please enclose a stamped addressed envelope . Do not send any money with this application.

Renewals for ‘ST’Post Codes; to Mr Mick Hann, 34 Kenley Avenue, Endon, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST9 9HX. Renewals for other postcode areas to Mrs L Hayes.

Access to Society Waters
Prospective members are reminded that they are not allowed to visit Society waters until they have obtained their membership ticket. Unless there is public access running adjacent to the location, all Society waters are Private, and prospective members are warned that being found on Society waters could jeopardise their application to join the Society.

Catch Reports
Catch reports are a little slow at the moment as the wet and windy conditions seemed to have kept us indoors over the latter part of the festive period. However, those who have ventured out have been reporting some nice chub on the River Dove, big perch on the Sow, and plenty of jack Pike on Redesmere and Capesthorne Main Lake. If you have been out on any Society waters, please do let us know how you have been getting on.

04-01-2007 ~ News from December Newsletter

Membership subscriptions for 2007
Senior £80, Senior Citizen / Lady / Disabled £40, Juvenile £20. Entrance fee Senior £40, Senior Citizen / Lady / Disabled £20, Juvenile nil. Night Fishing Permit for still waters £35, Non Fishing Guest Permit £5 for year, Guest Ticket £5 per day.

Membership Renewal
Please send 44p stamped addressed envelope. Please would all members with an ST Postcode renew with Mick Hann. Others please renew with Liz Hayes or Mick Hann.

Chairman’s Report
I hope you have had a good year and have been catching plenty of fish.

Once again it has been a challenging year, but what’s new! We never know what is around the corner. Everything was going fine then bang, due to the hot weather we had the Bolesworth de-oxygenation problem. However, due to excellent work by Geoff Hayes the situation was brought under control and remedial action taken with the Estate Owner to increase the depth of the lake.

The fishing on all venues this year has been exceptional with records being broken all over. Redesmere and Capesthorne have been making the headlines with plenty of Carp in the 30lbs+ class and there are now fish approaching 40lbs; It is looking good for the future not to mention the excellent Bream. There have been plenty of double figure Barbel caught on the River Dove with fish to 12lbs and some excellent Chub and Grayling fishing.

During the year we took out a new lease on Stanley Reservoir; many Members will be aware that we previously held the lease on this water for most of the last 100 years but relinquished it after all the fish were removed to facilitate major dam repairs. The water now has good stocks of fish and hopefully 20lbs+ Pike will soon be reported. The Committee are aware that the car parking needs to be improved and we in negotiations with British Waterways and the Sailing Club in an attempt to rectify the situation.

Last year I said we were becoming one of the most desirable clubs to join, I now firmly believe we are the best club to join. However, it is imperative that we continue to operate at the highest level and continue to provide excellent sport; with an increase in quality fishing.

Once again it is the time of year when I can publicly thank my fellow Senior Officials, Liz, Albert and Geoff for all of their hard work and support. Thank you to all Committee Members for their contributions and efforts over the last year; I would like to give a special mention of thanks to Mick Hann for selling Membership Cards and Geoff Beckett for the sterling work in organising the work parties.

Thank you to all Members for your support over the last twelve months. I wish you all the best for the future.
John Davey

Fishery Manager’s Report
The past twelve months have been both demanding and challenging. Undoubtedly the low point this year was the fish kill at Bolesworth when the oxygen disappeared out of part of the lake due to the algae dying off and the very hot weather. This reduced dissolved oxygen levels to less than 20%, with those fish in close proximity (estimated at around 5% of the total stocks) succumbing. This happened so suddenly, it needed a quick intervention to stabilize the situation. Thanks to the rapid response of the Cheshire Fire Service, Bolesworth Estate, Environment Agency and a few dedicated Members we were able to avert a catastrophic loss of further fish stocks. The most advantageous outcome was the work undertaken to excavate and deepen the small pool. This operation took three weeks with a tremendous transformation of the bank side. I have no doubt this will prove to be a very popular area to fish. I can report some excellent autumnal catches of mixed species since the work was completed.

The netting team has been busy this year. Once again we have continued to purchase healthy fish stocks for Society waters. One particular agreement we reached enabled us to secure large Bream and Tench for Astbury from a non Society water.Whilst netting Redesmere to take out a few Bream, I swept the net across the edge of a vast shoal clearly visible in the roadside shallows. The operation resulted in some 40 large Bream coming to the net, with remarkably two thirds being doubles. Notably we had a few 12lbs specimens, and a monster of around 13lbs+. We subsequently transferred a few Bream to 11lbs to Astbury. Redesmere regulars report numerous catches of specimen Bream with several around 14lbs +.

Throughout Autumn the weights of some of the famous large Carp at Redesmere have exceeded their previous best weights. As I write Mark Whelan has just contacted me to confirm the capture of the Snub Nosed Common at 38lbs 10ozs, an absolutely brilliant result. This follows on from the new record Mirror of Single Scale at 38lbs 7ozs captured by a new Member. The expectation is that someone will break the 39lbs barrier very soon. It was also nice to receive reports of large Tench being caught.

Ellenhall Pools ever consistent this year, with match weights of over 50lbs to frame and pleasure bags over 100lbs reported. The best news of all was that Pool 10 “Broadgate No 1” named after the late Stan Broadgate a long time Secretary of the Society, has started to reveal its true potential. We just need Pool 11 to start to produce and the long term plans for the Ellenhall complex to come to fruition.

There were mixed fortunes for many regulars on Fanshawe Pool this past twelve months. That said, it looks like the fish have resorted to tight feeding times, either early morning, or dusk; I say this because we have stocked with over 70 fast growing Carp between 1-2 lbs and over a dozen Tench to 4lbs +. However, some members report consistent success. Rudyard and Knypersley Reservoirs continue as popular venues for silver fish, with both also capable of producing sizeable Carp and Pike. Stanley Reservoir; it is still early days and hopefully when we have resolved the parking situation, it will become a favourite venue once more.

The Rivers Dove and Sow continue in fine form, with a number of spectacular Barbel and Chub hauls reported. In one of the matches this year, whilst trotting and alternating between maggot and caster I caught some prime Roach, my first ever from the Dove, and some sizeable Dace, not to mention a bonus 4lbs Chub. One or two Bream and Carp have been reported from the Barn stretch at Fauld; Scropton well that just gets better and better!

Capesthorne Hall has been in fine form this year with Bream, Roach and Tench coming back in large numbers. More 30lbs+ Carp reported each year and many twenties. Also reported was an elusive visitor to the bank a 6lbs Eel, the first I am aware of since a guest of mine caught a 4lbs Eel eight years ago.

The Capesthorne Stock Pond has provided incredible sport for young and more experienced Members. And I thank all those who were patient when we had to close it during the Summer, due to reduced water and oxygen levels.

Members will note from the AGM that the Society has decided to prohibit self portraits. The reason for this is simple: to further promote the safety and welfare of our specimen fish. Whilst on this subject, I would wish to draw Members’ attention to the rule about not using unacceptable rigs. This year we have witnessed a significant rise in incidences of fish and swans becoming tethered with trailing line and fixed leads, often with severe damage sustained to their mouths / beaks. Fixed lead rigs are not allowed on any Society water. For this reason, all Bailiffs will be encouraged to carry out more spot checks on terminal tackle, and give corrective advice where deemed necessary and appropriate. Remember, any member who refuses to submit to such a request, will be asked to leave the water and be subsequently dealt with by the Disciplinary Committee.

The fish management team has a full diary of activities in the coming months, netting, weed clearing and bank side restoration; if you feel able, please fill in the Work Party Slip when you renew your Membership card for 2007. I can promise you that all activities are carried out subject to Health and Safety Risk Assessments and there is much personal satisfaction in putting something back into the sport and preserving the aquatic environment.

I wish to thank all those Members who gave their time for the work parties. In particular, thanks to the Members who provided the 16 tons of donated timber which brought about a much needed transformation on the Capesthorne Estate; this work was very much appreciated by the Estate.
Geoff Hayes

Match Secretary’s Report
Matches on the R Dove Fauld resulted in catches of over 30lbs of barbel and Chub, also trout and Grayling.The Bolesworth matches were won with 40lbs with Carp to 15lbs, Bream to 6lbs, also Roach and Skimmers. Ellenhall Pools fished very well with most matches won with over 40lbs with Carp into double figures also small Carp and Roach. The Juvenile match was won by Chelsea Thorn with 35lbs. Anyone wishing to fish the regular Senior Citizen matches at this venue should contact Gerry Brookes, 077224241.

At the National Championships Nigel Thorn finished 3rd overall.

My thanks go to Gerry Brookes and Nigel Thorn for their help and support in organizing the matches.

In 2007 the Arthur Simcock Memorial match will be fished as an open at Rudyard
Tom Dean

Work Parties
The Committee would encourage more Members to volunteer to carry out some work on our waters. In addition to those members who regularly help in the Spring to obtain a Work Party pass we need a pool of volunteers who would be prepared to give us occasional help during the remainder of the year - details in the 2007 Membership cards. We could have another situation similar to that which occurred at Bolesworth where we desperately need some assistance.

Christmas and New Year
The Officials and Committee would like to wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to you continuing your membership into 2007 and many years in the future.

16-11-2006 ~ Last Cast brings Capesthorne result for Mike Foster
Mike Foster has been in touch to tell us about a stunning Main Lake carp he caught on the 30th October, weighing 27lb 12oz. Mike was fishing the field side by the bridge (Moose) on the penultimate night of October. With an off-estate time of 7pm, this gave Mike an hour fishing in the dark. With one bait in open water at about thirty yards and the other near to the bush by the bridge, Mike received a steady take on the open water rod but struck into fresh air, much to his disappointment. He then saw a flash go off on the Eagle where it transpired that Mark Booth had just had a 21lb mirror. Mike went for one last cast and put a stringer back to the area and sat back for the last hour. At 6-15pm Mike’s bush rod was away, resulting in the stunning mirror pictured below. In addition, Mike fished the next day, being the last in October, and managed a nice common of 15lb from the same peg. Mike reports that both fish were extremely welcome as they came on the back of eight blank sessions. All things come to he who waits, eh?

16-11-2006 ~ Snail & Shell does the business for Andy
As previously reported, Andy Freeman has been having a good year on SOTAS waters and he’s just sent in some photos of his recent Capesthorne Main Lake brace, with fish of 27lb 10oz and 30lb 4oz… What can you say! Stunning!

16-11-2006 ~ Redesmere Success for Dan Edgar
Dan Edgar has sent us a few pictures of his fantastic catches on Redesmere during this season. Dan’s a familiar face on many of the Society’s waters and has been targeting a number of Redesmere’s larger inhabitants for many years, and the magnificent fish below are just reward for his efforts.

Capesthorne Linear at 35lb 1oz

Single Scale at 36lb 4oz

The Snub at 37lb 10oz

16-11-2006 ~ New Mirror Carp Redesmere Lake Record
As previously reported, James Maris recently banked ‘Single Scale’ from Redesmere at a new mirror carp lake record, and now we have the pictures to share with you. The stunning fish weighed 38lb 7oz and was weighed on two different sets of scales and witnessed by Tony Crook. James would like to offer a large debt of thanks to Tony as he managed to forget his own camera that night – sods law! As can be seen from the photo, James says the fish was in excellent condition and swam off strongly soon afterwards.

James Marris with Single Scale at 38lb 7oz

16-11-2006 ~ October Fishery Report by Geoff Hayes
Bolesworth has been providing some exceptional returns on the run up to the close across all species, with silver fish making a welcome appearance. Carp have been reported to just under 20lb. The River Dove has produced Barbel to 12lb and good bags of Chub.

The carp have been showing on Redesmere with the ‘Pretty One’ out at 34lb+ to Matt Blinstone. The Snub Common has also been out to Dan Edgar at a new best of 37lb 10oz, and Craig Livingstone has taken a brace of Ring Tail (Leather) at a new best of 36lb 6oz and a young stunner at 23lb in mint condition. Plenty of 29lb Commons showing their autumnal best. Remarkably all the big fish have been well up in weight. Anglers have witnessed the Capesthorne Linear at close quarters in the woods and assess it to look massive. The talk on the banks is that it could do 39lb +. There is a real buzz about the Mere these days which for me reflects the stocking of the last ten years, and a better spirit on the banks.

Some upper double figure Carp from Fanshawe have been reported, although this water has proved difficult this year for some reason, perhaps more to do with the tight feeding times ,normally early morning and dusk.

Capesthorne stock pond alive with small Carp, Tench, Roach and Rudd. Good for young kids ,as long as they are supervised by an adult.

Stanley producing good bags of Roach and Bream and Pike to 19LB reported.

Capesthorne Main pool fishing well for Roach and Perch 2lb +.Bream a little cagey. Carp to 30lb with some pretty 25lb Mirors emerging. Still no news of the Fully Scaled and the Big Common.

Geoff Hayes.

Addition: Five Scales has been banked from the Top Pool at a weight of 27lb 6oz.

03-11-2006 ~ Horsebridge Pool Closed.
Would all members please be aware that Horsebridge Pool has been temporarily closed for fishing due to Health and Safety concerns. An update will be posted in the next few days.

01-11-2006 ~ Astbury Mere Perch Result
Mick Clewes, a SOTAS member from Madeley, has been in touch to tell us about a fantastic session he had recently whilst out spinning on Astbury Mere. During the session Mick took a nice pike ofaround10lb and no less than seven stunning perch – six of which were all over two pounds in weight!

Mick says six of the perch were all taken off the same peg using a Big S lure, which has to make you wonder just how many big perch there are within the water!

26-10-2006 ~ ‘Single Scale’ sets new Lake Record for Redesmere
James Maris landed single scale from Redesmere at 1.30am on Sunday 22nd October at an astonishing weight of 38lb 7lbs. The capture, which was a new personal best for James, also ranks as the heaviest mirror carp to come from the venue, and further fuels speculation that The Capesthorne Linear could well do over 39lb’s should anybody be lucky enough to catch it in the near future!

A big well done to James, we hope to have photos shortly.

23-10-2006 ~ Main Lake Brace for Andy Freeman
Andy Freeman took a stunning brace of carp from Capesthorne Main Lake on Friday, banking fish of 27lbs 10oz and 30lbs 4oz. Also caught during the session was a tench of approximately 6lb 8oz. Andy also reported another angler on the lake who took six pike on the same day.

23-10-2006 ~ Match Result - Inter-club challenge fished at Haywood Wides
1. N Thorn 35lbs 4 ozs
2. P Kurdziej 19 lbs 1 oz
3. G Brookes 14 lbs 2 ozs
4 J Berrisford 13 lbs 1 oz

Totals: Stoke-on-Trent AS 54 lbs 5 ozs / Potteries AS 2 lbs 12 ozs

Overall winners over two legs; Stoke-on-Trent AS 104 lbs, Potteries AS 22 lbs

23-10-2006 ~ Top Pool triumph for Mal
Mal Kell has finally put fish onto terra firma from top pool, just in time to celebrate his birthday! Mal managed to bank a stunning stocky mirror of 13lb 5oz followed by the venue’s infamous Red October at 20lb 3oz fishing from one of the weedier swims on the pool. Both fish came to the same rod under cover of darkness only 3 hours apart.

23-10-2006 ~ Scropton Specimen for Gary
Gary Podmore banked this stunning barbel from the Society’s Scropton stretch of the Dove recently. Gary was over the moon with the capture although he’s not exactly sure on the weight as he had forgotten his scales!

23-10-2006 ~ Stormy weather brings river result
Allan Fryer reports some good sport on the River of late. On a recent session with Alan Price where both fished through the thunder and lightning, the pair banked Chub, Dace, Perch, Pike, and Roach! The biggest roach went to 1lb 9oz with the best perch to 1lb 12oz (below). Allan reports lots of tiny perch and chub, which are good signs for the future.

23-10-2006 ~ Stanley on form for Andrew
Andrew Mantle reports a nice session on Stanley a little while ago. Fishing the venue for the first time since SOTAS regained the fishing rights; Andrew had thirty to forty small roach between 2oz and 6oz, along with four skimmers to 10oz and 1 bream to around the 2lb mark in addition to a number of small perch. All fish were taken on pole fishing maggot, caster and worm.

07-09-2006 ~ Capesthorne twenty is worth the wait for Mike
Mike Redding has been in touch to tell us about the capture of his first twenty pound carp, and what a twenty pound carp it is, one of the Main Lake’s finest at 28lb 14oz! Mike has been trying to break the twenty pound barrier for some time and persistence paid off when he banked his new PB from the shallows on Saturday. Mike says the fish gave an excellent account of itself and was in perfect condition.

Mike Redding with a Main Lake 28lb 14oz mirror

07-09-2006 ~ First Capesthorne carp for Andrew
Andrew Snape had his first Capethorne Main Lake Carp recently in the shape of the stunning 21lb 8oz mirror pictured below. The fish fell to a Dynamite Boilie at around 7.00am on the 27th August right in the middle of heavy rain shower and was taken half way up the field on the Hall side.

Andrew Snape with his first Capesthorne carp at 21lb 8oz

07-09-2006 ~ More Redesmere double figure bream!
Steve Jones has been in touch after we published the photos of Rick Birch on the home page with his first Redesmere double to show us pictures of a 13lb 8oz lump taken from the floating island. Steve explained it was one of four bream weighing 48lb in total and was caught about eight weeks ago, with the remaining three fish all over ten pounds! All the fish fell to boilies as Steve was after the carp at the time and the 13lb’er fell to a tuti frutti pop up fished over a method mix. Not to be outdone, Steve’s son, Lewis has also been catching some impressive lumps recently, and has just bagged himself a new personal best carp from Bolesworth weighing 15lb 8oz. The fish fell to a maggot approach and as you can tell by the picture, Lewis is more than pleased with the result!

Steve Jones with a 13lb 8oz Redesmere bream

Lewis Jones proudly displays his 15lb 8oz PB Bolesworth carp

07-09-2006 ~ Dove on form for barbel
We have received news of a number of good catches from the Dove recently, and finally we are able to share some stunning images. The first shows Ron Weston with an awesome 10lb specimen whilst below is Carl Paddock with his first ever barbel at 9lb 5oz!

Ron Weston with a 10lb specimen

Not bad for your first attempt! Carl Paddock with a 9lb 5oz specimen

31-08-2006 ~ Main Lake result for Mike.
Mike Foster has been in touch about his latest catch from Capesthorne Main Lake. Mike was fishing the Moose Peg on Thursday evening during a session where conditions did not look too good. It had gone clear and cold and so Mike decided to head for home. Just as Mike had everything packed away bar the rods and buzzers at around 8.45pm, the right hand rod screamed off. Mike struck into the fish and described the fight as ‘truly unbelievable’ as he struggled to get it under control. The fish was eventually netted at 8.55pm with the light fading fast. The stunning mirror, a very long fish with a huge tail, went 28lb-14oz up on the scales and is Mike’s seventh fish of the season and his forth twenty, and although classed as an ‘old hand’ when it comes to fishing the Main Lake, Mike says that the fish in the lake never cease to amaze him as the weights just keep going up all the time!

Mike Foster with his seventh Main Lake fish of the season at 28lb 14oz

31-08-2006 ~ John Davey Go Fishing website Launched.
Having recently become a fully qualified JAGB Licensed Professional Angling Coach working with Stoke Angling for Everyone (SAFE), SOTAS Chairman John Davey has launched the John Davey Go Fishing website which promotes his services to those wishing to get a little more out of the sport. John is able to provide one-to-one tuition as well as being able to cater for groups and corporate bookings on a wide range of venues both at home and abroad. For more information visit: http://www.johndaveygofishing.co.uk

31-08-2006 ~ Redesmere Images
We’ve been sent in some fantastic pictures of father and son team Paul and Andy Freeman who have been having some awesome results on the Society’s Redesmere venue. MB Baits Snail & Shell has proved the successful bait for the pair who have banked an amazing number of big fish from the water recently.

Andy Freeman 17lb 8oz

Andy Freeman 24lb

Andy Freeman, Single Scale, 34lb 10oz

Paul Freeman, Capesthorne Linear, 36lb 12oz

Paul Freeman, The Snub, 34lb 14oz

Paul Freeman, 28lb

30-08-2006 ~ Main Lake result for Mal
Friday, 11th August is a date that will stick in the memory of top pool regular Mal Kell for some time. Mal banked his first two SOTAS fish within a couple of hours of each other from the Main Lake off a peg near the electric fence. Fishing just off an area of weed in the margin with his trusty chopped tigers, he opened his account with an immaculate common carp weighing 15lb 4oz at around 2pm, followed up by a lost fish before later hitting into another fish at 5pm - smashing his personal best with an awesome 26lb 14oz Mirror Carp. Both fish were banked on combi/stiff rigs fished in conjunction with small bolt rigs and Mal is pictured with his two Main Lake carp below.

15lb 4oz common

26lb 14oz mirror

30-08-2006 ~ From July 2006 Update.
The River Dove has been providing some spectacular catches of big Chub to 5lbs. Jim Beresford had twenty four such fish in a single sitting, though to be fair he reads the river well, especially when the fish are hard to come by. He and Paul Kurdiez have had a number of Barbel to just under 12lb from the same stretches. Grayling to 2lb have also been reported by members and unbelievably, the emergence of chublets at Fauld.

Capesthorne Main Lake has been on fine form recently. Large carp have been falling to many anglers from locations all over the lake with the Garden Pool and Shallows proving equally productive. Matt Gibson caught a new personal best 30lb 8oz Capesthorne mirror, while Steve Stone recently banked the venues stunning ‘Two Tone’ at a weight of 31lb 4oz. The Main Lake has also been providing some excellent Bream catches, and a few anglers have caught specimen Tench. The Society received a nice report from Gerry Brookes, a match angler, who enjoyed some quality Roach fishing.

The Top pool went quite for a while with the weed now coming through with a vengeance. Some of the regulars are planning an assault on this to improve access to some swims. Phil Wain and Damian Martin have added to their early season tallies (see news) with a few decent fish. Some of the larger specimens still remain elusive, though can often be seen basking in the heat of the mid day sun.

Redesmere remains consistent with some of the thirties having been out at least twice since the start of the season. Single Scale has made one appearance to Andy Freeman at 34lb plus, with plenty of the Fanshawe stockies now well into their twenties. Redesmere Tench made an appearance with Gerry Bradley reporting a brace of upper 7's, young fish by all accounts. The Bream go from strength to strength with a few more fish to 14lb reported by Carp anglers. One of the bailiffs, Glyn, had a 13lb specimen and his partner a 12lb 10oz cracker.

Mick Hann reported quality Bream and Roach showing in numbers at Stanley Pool, and one long standing member reported witnessing a 27lb Pike at the back end of last season, as well as catching a 22lb fish himself. This is indeed good news.

Bolesworth remains consistent as ever across the species range, and Chris Hampson reported a 22lb 5oz mirror from Bolesworth using 10mm halibut pellets in a PVA bag fished close in to the margin. A number of members have experienced problems with the cattle in the field, which have been conveyed to the owner. In the meantime members are asked to be tolerant of the situation.

Geoff Hayes reports that more quality tench have been stocked into Astbury and several Bream from 3 - 5lb, and in the hot weather Geoff was able to count around sixty plus Carp in the margins on a walk around the Lake, with the ratio of Commons to Mirrors in the order of 5 to 1. Some of the fish were viewed at close quarters and Geoff estimated some to be well into the twenties.

Steve Stone is pictured below with the magnificent ‘Two Tone’ at 31lb 4oz

10-08-2006 ~ Bolesworth Update
Bolesworth will remain closed for at least another two/three weeks whilst major excavation of the small pool at the bridge end of the lake takes place. The fisheries team spent most of yesterday rescuing fish stranded at this end of the lake after a 250 Ton clay dam had been put in place to divide the water. The engineers commenced to pump water out of the small pool into the main lake, after which several Eels around 2lb, three Carp to 5lb and some small Roach were also transferred.

Using heavy plant it is likely that the water will finish up with average depths of five feet. More importantly, the Society will be able to recover about a half an acre of water at this end of the lake which was completely silted up and choked.

Once completed most of this area of the lake will be landscaped. Two large Beech trees have been felled and the Alders thinned to let more light into the lake.

Members are asked to remain patient while the work continues, and more importantly, for Heath and Safety reasons are asked not to visit the Estate for any reason what so ever.

01-08-2006 ~ Bolesworth Castle Update
Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes reports that a potentially devastating fish kill brought about by the hot weather and low dissolved oxygen levels has narrowly been avoided on the Society’s Bolesworth Castle venue. The Fisheries Management Team arrived at the water last Monday to find over 500 carp struggling on the surface near to the bridge.

After contacting the Environment Agency a contact was passed on for Sykes pumps and they attended within an hour and a half from their base in Mold, North Wales, with two industrial pumps. Such was the concern that Geoff Hayes also sought help from ex colleagues in the fire service, and the professionals from Tarporley Community Fire station were on site to assist within ten minutes. Luckily the crew had two anglers on board, so they quickly got to work with the portable fire pump, which blasted an atomised spray across the lake, with Liz and Geoff Hayes taking responsibility for the pumps.

Unfortunately there have been reported losses, which although gut wrenching at any time, are remarkably low when considering the NW Environment Agency’s findings on the dissolved oxygen levels. The samples confirmed marked fluctuations with less than 20% at either end of the lake and a pocket of 83% just past the island. In terms of the fish loss, the count stands at 50 Carp from 5lb - 15lb, 150 Skimmer Bream 4oz -10oz, 40 Bream 2-3lb, 5 Eels to 5lb, 3 Tench 2-3lb, and 50 Roach 8oz to just over a 1lb. This figure could have been much worse were it not for the actions of those in attendance.

The current situation will be discussed at Committee this Thursday before arranging a meeting with the owner to discuss what needs to do to prevent this happening again in the future. However, it is almost certain that we shall have to reduce the huge bio mass of fish, and look to removal of the silt at both ends of the lake.

Geoff Hayes would like to express sincere thanks to all those involved with helping out over the last week with special thanks going out Brian Morris the Bolesworth Gamekeeper, who has been a huge help. Last week Ron and Nige Weston and two of Nige's friends along with Tony Lowndes helped to relocate the fire pump, before carrying out the grim task of recovering the dead carcasses. Yesterday along with Liz and Geoff Hayes, the 'Thorne Clan' ( Nigel, Lesley, Damien, and Chelsea) got stuck in with some of the regulars clearing dead lilly roots and recovering the remaining dead fish, a gut wrenching experience for all involved. Geoff praised all involved for their commitment to the task in hand.

The water remains CLOSED as the situation could turn critical at any time with the warm weather set for a few more weeks.

24-07-06 ~ Early morning call for Andy
New SOTAS member Andy has been at it again on the Top Pool, banking this stunning 23lb 8oz mirror from a swim in the Woods. The run came to Andy’s rod at around 4am from a baited spot in the left hand margin and proved a handful to deal with before it finally went into the net.

The fish is Andy’s first twenty of the season and his second fish from the Top Pool to date.

21-07-06 ~ Capesthorne session proves Hot Stuff for Michael
Michael Furnivall contacted me yesterday to inform me of a cracking 22lb mirror banked from Capesthorne Main Lake on Wednesday. On what was probably the hottest day of the year so far, Michael did not really expect to have anything until later in the day when it started to cool down, but low and behold, off went the rod and the Main Lake specimen was banked! Mike Foster was also amongst the fish in the peg next door, taking a 15lb carp off the surface.

21-07-06 ~ Stunning Linear for Phil Wain
Phil Wain’s Top Pool season continues apace after banking this stunning linear at 23lb. After a very quiet night fishing the point swim, Phil was up with the dawn chorus and off round the lake looking for feeding fish. Phil later found a shoal of big carp and dropped a single hookbait just off to one side from the group. Shortly afterwards the fish started to split up and spread out into a larger area and a few came right over Phil’s bait. Phil watched as one fish dropped down and seconds later he was doing battle with another Top Pool specimen!

21-07-06 ~ Second Top Pool Fish for Damian
Damian Martin scored his second Top Pool fish of the season last weekend in the form of this stunning 21lb 10oz specimen. The very dark mirror followed on from a lovely 16lb common banked the week previous. Damian is pictured below with his fish.

21-07-06 ~ News from June 2006 Update
Welcome to the June 2006 update. We’ve been getting some excellent reports coming in over the last week or two from those members who completed work parties and therefore were able to fish Closed Season waters from June 1st. Redesmere kicked off in style with several fish to over thirty pounds banked from swims all over the lake! Capesthorne Main Lake has also produced the goods for many anglers and the Top Pool has also given up a few gems to those who have put the time in – details and pictures in the news section. Brian Banks has again informed us of some cracking results on Astbury Mere, with one lucky angler taking three small commons, plus mirrors of: 19lb, 22lb, 23lb and 29lb – Nice work if you can get it! There have also been reports of bream to double figures being caught – further proof were it needed of the venues potential for all species.

26-06-2006 ~ Capesthorne Thirty for Matt
Matt Gibson caught this awesome 30lb 8oz Capesthorne Main Lake carp on the 2nd June 2006. The fish is Matt’s first over the magical 30lb mark, weighing in at 30lb 8oz, and the smile says as much!

Stoke-on-Trent Angling Society Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes informs us that the fish was weighed two years ago during a netting party at 28lb 8oz, and as far as he is aware, this is it’s first capture at over thirty pounds – now making it an astonishing six fish capable of doing 30lb in the venue at any one time!

13-06-2006 ~ More off the Top for Phil Wain
NorthWestcarp.co.uk Moderator Phil Wain got amongst the fish again on the Top Pool last week, taking this stunning common which weighed in at 16lb 2oz.

The fish was Phil’s second of the season so far to be taken off the top from the venue-a big well done from all the team!

11-06-2006 ~ Phil ends ‘The hunt for Red October’
North West Carp forum moderator Phil Wain got amongst the fish during what proved to be a difficult opener on the Top Pool. Conditions were far from ideal but that did not stop Phil banking one of his target fish during his first session of the new season.

Phil explained “I had the fish off the surface and it fought like a demon ripping me right through the pads into the channel where it put up one heck of a battle before I managed to get it in again. I enjoyed every minute of it I can tell you!”

“I also managed to bag a stunning brace of tench on consecutive casts so all in all I was overjoyed with my first session of the year!”

Below, Phil proudly displays the Top Pool’s ‘Red October’ at 19lb 14oz, and his brace of tench

11-06-2006 ~ Main Lake Personal Best for Mike Burke
After joining SOTAS last year, Mike Burke has spent many an hour on Capesthorne Main Lake trying to tempt some of its larger inhabitants, and banked several fish to just under 20lb along the way. During the opening week this year Mike went one better, banking this stunning 23lb personal best mirror.

11-06-2006 ~ Redesmere Success for Greenie!
New SOTAS member Paul Greenall had a result to remember on Redesmere after banking three fish during his opening session! “I had seen fish off the railings where people feed the ducks for 2 weeks every night before the draw on the Thursday morning. Most of the chunks were just milling around between one and two feet off the pier. Come the draw at 8 o’clock and whose name came out first.... Moi... RESULT!” explained Paul.

“I picked the swim facing and had the biggest of three fish on the first day, a cracking mirror of 28lb 10oz. Everyone seemed to be moving swims following the fish but myself and a friend decided to stick at it as we had seen the way the fish were patrolling and hoped with there being no lines in the water bar ours that they would come back.” He continued, adding “Luckily the did, and my friend caught two fish to 28lb and I had another at 19lb. The next morning I was awoken at two in the morning by a 9lb 10oz bream, and then after moving swims had another stunning mirror of 24lb 4oz.

Below Paul displays his 28lb 10oz mirror, 24lb 4oz mirror and 19lb common.

11-06-2006 ~ News from May 2006 Update
Welcome to the May update. With many Society waters closed until June many anglers have been tackling Astbury Mere with varying degrees of success, although the improved weather over the last few weeks has brought about a dramatic upturn in results with several carp to mid-twenty reported, more to be added shortly in the news section. One fish worthy of mention is the stunning fully scaled mirror pictured below taken by Nigel Weston. Nigel fished a 48-hr session on the venue a couple of weeks ago with Steve Baker, and banked the stunning fish minutes after casting out. Steve also banked fish of 16lb 6oz and 14lb during the same session.

The last few days before the closed season produced a number of quality fish on the Capesthorne Estate, topped by a stunning 26lb carp for Gareth Halliburton on the Main Lake (see news). Also amongst the fish was Phil Wain, who bagged one of only two fish banked off the Top Pool over the whole of the Winter period.

Work Parties have been taking place across the Society’s waters in recent weeks in readiness for June and the netting teams have been busy as usual, adding more fish to Astbury, the Capesthorne Estate, and Redesmere. In addition, Fisheries Manager Geoff Hayes would like to make it clear to all members that under no circumstances should any fish be transferred between Society waters. Any members found to be doing so of their own accord will be immediately banned from the Society and reported to the authorities.

Nige Weston pictured below with an Astbury stunner

25-05-2006 ~ Astbury Mere on Form
Brain Banks reports good sport on Astbury Mere over the last few weeks with lots of good fish being caught; best reported carp to date is a 28lb mirror.

Colin Stubbs also had a four fish haul with the best a 25lb common. Brian reports that over twenty 20’s have been landed in recent weeks with many additional double figure fish banked.

In addition, three bream have been caught to double figures along with a number of good tench.

08-05-2006 ~ Capesthorne Carp Success
Gareth Halliburton decided to walk the banks of Capesthorne Main Lake, in anticipation of fishing the last day of the season. He arrived on Friday morning, and chose an area where he had seen fish the day previous. The Garden Pool was his favoured area, with baits placed just 10 feet off the bridge, over a scattering of PB Baits Dust pellet, and took a lovely 26lb 1oz Mirror around 9.30 am.

Gareth's 26lb Main Lake Mirror

08-05-2006 ~ Foster Family Result
Mike Foster has contacted us with details of a number of fish taken between him and his two sons, Liam, and Josh. They have been fishing the Dam at Capesthorne Hall’s Main Lake and have managed to bank a number of quality fish.

Firstly are Mike’s 16lb 12oz Pike, and a 1lb 10oz Perch. Mike had previously hooked and lost the same Pike, and so was pleased to hook and the fish the next day, still with his other hook in its mouth. Mike has been fishing for the Perch for quite a period of time and took the pictured 1lb 1oz specimen on just 3lb main line and a size 6 hook.

Mike's mint 16lb 12oz Main Lake Pike

Mike Foster's 1lb 10oz specimen Perch

Liam, 17 fished the ‘Chicken Run’ peg and managed to bank his first ever pike, weighing in at 8lb 2oz, a stunning looking fish.

Mike’s youngest son was not to be outdone either; Josh fished light tackle and words near the dam wall to tempt a lovely looking 4lb Tench who said it gave him a “very hard fight”.

Mike also added, “It’s the first time I have had a long run of fishing over the winter… and I am enjoying it”.

Liam's stunning first Capesthorne Pike

Josh's worm success: a 4lb Tench

20-02-2006 ~ Match Results Lionel Kirkham Trophy
Fished on the River Dove, Fauld, 22/01/06
1st. J Berrisford 33 lbs 14 ozs
2nd. C Bourne 3 lbs 1 oz
3rd. N Thorn 1 lb 8 ozs

Weights contained chub to 4 lbs; Grayling to 1 lb 8 oz.

20-02-2006 ~ From January 2006 Update
Events turned full circle at Stoke-on-Trent Angling Society’s January meeting when it was announced that terms for a lease had been agreed on Stanley Reservoir. The Society, which controlled fishing on the popular coarse fishery for most of the twentieth century, gave up the lease nine years ago when new terms could not be agreed. However, John Davey explained that they now controlled the fishing again with immediate effect in a move which would see the Society going back to its roots. The reservoir contains good numbers of pike, roach, and bream and members have already been reporting impressive catches since the news was announced – if you have any photos of fish from Stanley, please get in touch. Discussions are ongoing in relation to parking facilities – more news as we get it.

Carp fishing has remained slow on Redesmere and Top Pool, although rumour has it that a few fish are being banked from Capesthorne Main Lake. The Stock Pond is on fine form with one Committee member taking carp to double figures! Bolesworth has also been on good form with many members reporting excellent catches despite the cold weather. Best catch reported to date was from Top Pool regular Phil Wain, who took no less than nine carp in total during one session, six of which were into double figures – all fish falling to Mick Ball’s Snail & Shell.

Coarse fishing has been in excellent form on the Society’s waters of late. Capesthorne Main Lake has been providing superb bags of silver fish whilst the River Dove at Scropton saw a pike of 19lb banked. The Sow has also been on good form producing some quality chub, with two fish over 5lb reported at; 5lb 14oz and 5lb 12 oz – hopefully photos to follow.

24-01-2006 ~ Stanley Catch Reports
Following the Society’s acquisition of fishing rights to Stanley Reservoir, Fisheries Manage